What are pigments?

Overall, the World knows a large variety of pigments that can be categorised according to their origin e.g. natural or synthetic pigments. Another classification could also be made based on the chemical compound of the pigment e.g. inorganic (mineral) or organic pigment.

Natural pigments can have an organic origin (e.g. bister) or can be found in the form of a mineral (ochre, umber, ruddle,…).

The better part of existing pigments are nevertheless synthesised by combing minerals and other organic substances. The most important mineral synthetic pigments are oxides made of iron, chrome, titanium, lead, molybdate,… . Further, there exist a large variety of organic compounds that have a colouring capacity. (e.g. phthalocyanines, azopigments)